Sam Allardyce claims NFL influenced his managerial style

Sam Allardyce played for the Tampa Bay Rowdies in 1983

West Ham manager Sam Allardyce says American Football has played a big part in influencing his managerial style.

Allardyce was exposed to gridiron when playing football for the Tampa Bay Rowdies in 1983, who ground-shared with NFL side Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

He told BBC London 94.9: "Seeing the Buccaneers was the start of my philosophy and evolvement as a manager.

"It was the amount of technology and backroom staff they used to service the players and to deliver the best."

The 57-year-old former Blackpool, Notts County, Bolton, Newcastle and Blackburn boss learned to appreciate American Football during his 11-game playing spell in Florida.

"I enjoy the game, I enjoy watching the tactical side of it and the great detail they put into trying to win a game at that level," he added.

But although Allardyce admits he is a Buccaneers fan, he will not be attending their NFL clash with the Chicago Bears at Wembley.

Instead, he will be preparing for West Ham's Championship game at Brighton on Monday.

"Unfortunately because of our situation, we'll be preparing for Brighton," he said.

"I had one of the best times of my life when I was at Tampa Bay Rowdies and I wish the Buccaneers all the best on Sunday."